Electricity

The electricity program is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to master the skills required for success in the electrical trades. Prior knowledge of the electrical trade is not required. Students in the program learn skills and knowledge needed to install, maintain and troubleshoot a variety of electrical systems, residential as well as commercial and industrial facilities, while adhering to the National Electrical Code (NEC), specifications and blueprints. The two-year curriculum leads to a Certificate of Achievement or an Associate in Science degree. Recommended electives are designed to introduce additional areas in the electrical field to students or working electricians. These courses may also be used to satisfy the State of California recertification requirements for electricians.

Program Goals

The goal and objective of this program is to provide students with hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge needed to meet the demands of an electrician entering the field.

Program Emphasis

The program begins with an introduction to basic electrical theory and continues through advanced electrical theory, installation and maintenance of industrial equipment, familiarization with electrical codes and blueprints, and the characteristics and uses of motor controls. Emphasis is also placed on electrical safety and application of the National Electric Code to residential and commercial electrical installations. The program also offers courses intended to satisfy the State of California re-certification requirements for electricians working for or as a C-10 Electrical Contractor.

Career Options

Employment may be found as an electrician, electric lineman, maintenance electrician, electrical helper, and electrical motor repairer. Industries that hire electricians range from city and government agencies to commercial firms as well as homeowners. The Electricity Program offers Electrician Trainees who have taken courses with the opportunity to apply their courses toward earning a certificate or an associate degree in Electricity. (See the Professor in charge of the Electricity Program.)

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the program will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of electrical codes and blueprints.

Discuss and demonstrate knowledge of safety in the electrical field.

Evaluate electrical wiring diagrams as they relate to implementation.

Demonstrate a basic knowledge of generators and motors.

Prepare and apply to take the State of California electrician certification exam.